Bioactive organosulfur phytochemicals in Brassica oleracea vegetables--a review

Comparative study of the quality indices, antioxidant substances, and mineral elements in different forms of cabbage

BACKGROUND

As the second largest leafy vegetable, cabbage (Brassica oleracea L. var. capitata) is grown globally, and the characteristics of the different varieties, forms, and colors of cabbage may differ. In this study, five analysis methods-variance analysis, correlation analysis, cluster analysis, principal component analysis, and comprehensive ranking-were used to evaluate the quality indices (soluble protein, soluble sugar, and nitrate), antioxidant content (vitamin C, polyphenols, and flavonoids), and mineral (K, Ca, Mg, Cu, Fe, Mn, and Zn) content of 159 varieties of four forms (green spherical, green oblate, purple spherical, and green cow heart) of cabbage.

RESULTS

The results showed that there are significant differences among different forms and varieties of cabbage. Compared to the other three forms, the purple spherical cabbage had the highest flavonoid, K, Mg, Cu, Mn, and Zn content. A scatter plot of the principal component analysis showed that the purple spherical and green cow heart cabbage varieties were distributed to the same quadrant, indicating that their quality indices and mineral contents were highly consistent, while those of the green spherical and oblate varieties were irregularly distributed. Overall, the green spherical cabbage ranked first, followed by the green cow heart, green oblate, and purple spherical varieties.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results provide a theoretical basis for the cultivation and high-quality breeding of cabbage.

Treated incidence of first episode psychosis in Sinop, Turkey: results of a 4-year admission-based study - SINOPsy

BACKGROUND

The incidence of psychotic disorders varies in different geographic areas. As there has been no report from Turkey, this study aimed to provide the treated incidence rate of first-episode psychosis (FEP) in a defined area.

METHODS

All individuals, aged 15-64 years, presenting with FEP (ICD-10 F20-29, F30-33) to mental health services in a defined catchment-area in Sinop which is located in the Black Sea region of the northern Turkey were recorded over a 4-year period (2009 to 2012). Incidence rates of psychotic disorders and their 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were estimated. Poisson regression was applied to estimate the differences in incidence rate ratio (IRR) by age, sex, and urbanicity.

RESULTS

One hundred and fifteen FEP participants were identified during the 4 years. Crude incidence rates of all psychoses, schizophrenia, other psychotic disorders, and affective psychotic disorders were respectively 38.5 (95% CI 27.1-49.9), 10.7 (95% CI 6.6-14.8), 10.0 (95% CI 5.7-14.3) and 17.7 (95% CI 11.3-24.2) per 100 000 person-years. After age-sex standardisation the rates increased slightly. There were no gender differences in the incidence rates. IRR of any psychotic disorder was highest in the youngest age group (15-24 years) compared to the oldest age group (55-64 years), 7.9 (95% CI 2.8-30.5). In contrast with previous studies, the incidence rate of any psychotic disorder was not significantly increased in urban areas compared with rural areas.

CONCLUSIONS

The current study, the first of its kind from Turkey, indicates that the risk of schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders in a lowly urbanised area of Turkey is comparable to those reported in Western European cities.

Glucosinolate Diversity Analysis in Choy Sum (Brassica rapa subsp. chinensis var. parachinensis) Germplasms for Functional Food Breeding

The aim of this study was to analyze glucosinolates (GSLs) in germplasm that are currently conserved at the RDA-Genebank. The analysis focused on the glucosinolate diversity among the analyzed germplasms, with the goal of identifying those that would be most useful for future breeding efforts to produce nutritionally rich Choy sum plants. In total, 23 accessions of Choy sums that possessed ample background passport information were selected. On analyzing the glucosinolate content for 17 different glucosinolates, we observed aliphatic GSLs to be the most common (89.45%) and aromatic GSLs to be the least common (6.94%) of the total glucosinolates detected. Among the highly represented aliphatic GSLs, gluconapin and glucobrassicanapin were found to contribute the most (>20%), and sinalbin, glucoraphanin, glucoraphasatin, and glucoiberin were detected the least (less than 0.05%). We identified one of the accessions, IT228140, to synthesize high quantities of glucobrassicanapin and progoitrin, which have been reported to contain several therapeutic applications. These conserved germplasms are potential bioresources for breeders, and the availability of information, including therapeutically important glucosinolate content, can help produce plant varieties that can naturally impact public health.

Glucosinolates, a natural chemical arsenal: More to tell than the myrosinase story

Glucosinolates are a group of thioglucosides that belong to the class of plant nitrogen-containing natural products. So far, very little biological activity has been associated with intact glucosinolates. The hydrolysis of glucosinolates has, for long, attracted attention because of the potent biological activity of the hydrolysis products. From allelopathic to antiparasitic, antimicrobial and antineoplastic effects, the activity spectrum of the degradation products of typical glucosinolates has been the subject of much research. The present review seeks to address the various means of glucosinolate degradation (thermal, enzymatic, or chemical degradation) and the ensuing products. It also aims to draw a comparative profile of the various antimicrobial effects of these degradation products to provide a further understanding of the biological function of these important compounds.

Developing multifunctional crops by engineering Brassicaceae glucosinolate pathways

Glucosinolates (GSLs), found mainly in species of the Brassicaceae family, are one of the most well-studied classes of secondary metabolites. Produced by the action of myrosinase on GSLs, GSL-derived hydrolysis products (GHPs) primarily defend against biotic stress in planta. They also significantly affect the quality of crop products, with a subset of GHPs contributing unique food flavors and multiple therapeutic benefits or causing disagreeable food odors and health risks. Here, we explore the potential of these bioactive functions, which could be exploited for future sustainable agriculture. We first summarize our accumulated understanding of GSL diversity and distribution across representative Brassicaceae species. We then systematically discuss and evaluate the potential of exploited and unutilized genes involved in GSL biosynthesis, transport, and hydrolysis as candidate GSL engineering targets. Benefiting from available information on GSL and GHP functions, we explore options for multifunctional Brassicaceae crop ideotypes to meet future demand for food diversification and sustainable crop production. An integrated roadmap is subsequently proposed to guide ideotype development, in which maximization of beneficial effects and minimization of detrimental effects of GHPs could be combined and associated with various end uses. Based on several use-case examples, we discuss advantages and limitations of available biotechnological approaches that may contribute to effective deployment and could provide novel insights for optimization of future GSL engineering.

Anaemia in Ruminants Caused by Plant Consumption

Plant toxicology has affected animals throughout evolution. Plants have adapted themselves to the environment. This adaptation has led to the development of defensive strategies to avoid being consumed. Plants have several chemical compounds, which can cause deleterious effects on people or animals that consume them, causing a wide variety of clinical signs. Plants from various latitudes, both cultivated for human and animal feeding or decorative purpose and even wild growth plants are able to generate anaemia in ruminants. Coumarins or ptaquiloside predispose bleeding and haemorrhages, causing a haemorrhagic disease in affected animals. In this group, some important fodder plants, such sweet clover (Genus Melilotus spp.), or other weeds distributed worldwide, such as bracken fern (Pteridium aquilinum) of giant fennel (Ferula communis), are included. On the other hand, sulfur-containing chemicals (e.g., n-propyl disulfate and S-propyl cysteine sulfoxides (SMCOs)) may cause severe direct damage to the erythrocyte and their membrane, leading to their destruction and causing haemolytic anaemia in the animal. This review presents the most frequent intoxication by plants causing anaemia in ruminants. Toxic compounds, clinical signs, diagnosis and possible treatments are also presented.

Bacterial Skin Infections in Livestock and Plant-Based Alternatives to Their Antibiotic Treatment

Due to its large surface area, the skin is susceptible to various injuries, possibly accompanied by the entrance of infective agents into the body. Commensal organisms that constitute the skin microbiota play important roles in the orchestration of cutaneous homeostasis and immune competence. The opportunistic pathogen Staphylococcus aureus is present as part of the normal biota of the skin and mucous membranes in both humans and animals, but can cause disease when it invades the body either due to trauma or because of the impaired immune response of the host. Colonization of livestock skin by S. aureus is a precursor for majority of bacterial skin infections, which range from boils to sepsis, with the best-characterized being bovine mastitis. Antibiotic treatment of these infections can contribute to the promotion of resistant bacterial strains and even to multidrug resistance. The development of antibiotic resistance to currently available antibiotics is a worldwide problem. Considering the increasing ability of bacteria to effectively resist antibacterial agents, it is important to reduce the livestock consumption of antibiotics to preserve antibiotic effectiveness in the future. Plants are recognized as sources of various bioactive substances, including antibacterial activity towards clinically important microorganisms. This review provides an overview of the current knowledge on the major groups of phytochemicals with antibacterial activity and their modes of action. It also provides a list of currently known and used plant species aimed at treating or preventing bacterial skin infections in livestock.

Investigation of glucosinolates in the desert plant Ochradenus baccatus (Brassicales: Resedaceae). Unveiling glucoochradenin, a new arabinosylated glucosinolate

Here we describe the structure elucidation and quantification of six glucosinolates (GSLs) from the roots of the desert plant Ochradenus baccatus, Delile 1813 (family Resedaceae; order Brassicales). The structure elucidation was established on the corresponding enzymatically desulfated derivatives of the native GSLs of the plant. Among these GSLs we describe the previously undescribed 2″-O-(α-L-arabinopyranosyloxy)benzylglucosinolate (1a), for which we propose the name glucoochradenin. The other five glucosinolates (2a-6a) were (2S)-2-hydroxy-2-phenylethylglucosinolate (2a; glucobarbarin), 2″-O-(α-L-rhamnopyranosyloxy)benzylglucosinolate (3a), benzylglucosinolate (4a; glucotropaeolin), indol-3-ylmethylglucosinolate (5a; glucobrassicin) and phenethylglucosinolate (6a; gluconasturtiin), all elucidated as their desulfo-derivatives, 2b-6b respectively). Structures were elucidated by MS and 1D and 2D-NMR techniques, the identity of the arabinose verified by ion chromatography, and the absolute configuration of the sugar units determined by hydrolysis, coupling to cysteine methyl-ester and phenyl isothiocyanate followed by HPLC-MS analysis of the resulted diastereomers. Response factors were generated for desulfo-2″-O-(α-L-arabinopyranosyloxy)benzylglucosinolate and for desulfo-2″-O-(α-L-rhamnopyranosyloxy)benzylglucosinolate and all six GSLs were quantified, indicating that the root of O. baccatus is rich in GSLs (Avg. 61.3 ± 10.0 μmol/g DW and up to 337.2 μmol/g DW).

Relationship between Volatile Composition and Bioactive Potential of Vegetables and Fruits of Regular Consumption-An Integrative Approach

In recent years, there has been a growing interest in studying and exploring the potential health benefits of foods, mainly from vegetables and fruits from regular intake. The presence of secondary metabolites, namely polyphenols, carotenoids and terpenes, in certain food matrices seems to contribute to their functional properties, expressed through an increased prevention in the development of certain chronic diseases, namely coronary heart diseases, neurodegenerative diseases, cancer and diabetes. However, some foods' volatile secondary metabolites also present important bioactive properties, although this is a poorly scientifically explored field. In this context, and in order to explore the potential bioactivity of volatile metabolites in different vegetables and fruits from regular consumption, the volatile composition was established using a green extraction technique, solid phase microextraction in headspace mode (HS-SPME), combined with gas chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (GC-MS). A total of 320 volatile metabolites, comprising 51 terpenic compounds, 45 organosulfur compounds, 31 aldehydes, 37 esters, 29 ketones, 28 alcohols, 23 furanic compounds, 22 hydrocarbons, 19 benzene compounds, 13 nitrogenous compounds, 9 carboxylic acids, 7 ethers, 4 halogenated compounds and 3 naphthalene derivatives, were positively identified. Each investigated fruit and vegetable showed a specific volatile metabolomic profile. The obtained results revealed that terpenic compounds, to which are associated antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anticancer activities, are the most predominant chemical family in beetroot (61%), orange carrot (58%) and white carrot (61%), while organosulfur compounds (antiviral activity) are dominant in onion, garlic and watercress. Broccoli and spinach are essentially constituted by alcohols and aldehydes (enzyme-inhibition and antimicrobial properties), while fruits from the Solanaceae family are characterized by esters in tamarillo and aldehydes in tomato.

Biosynthesis of Sinapigladioside, an Antifungal Isothiocyanate from Burkholderia Symbionts

Sinapigladioside is a rare isothiocyanate-bearing natural product from beetle-associated bacteria (Burkholderia gladioli) that might protect beetle offspring against entomopathogenic fungi. The biosynthetic origin of sinapigladioside has been elusive, and little is known about bacterial isothiocyanate biosynthesis in general. On the basis of stable-isotope labeling, bioinformatics, and mutagenesis, we identified the sinapigladioside biosynthesis gene cluster in the symbiont and found that an isonitrile synthase plays a key role in the biosynthetic pathway. Genome mining and network analyses indicate that related gene clusters are distributed across various bacterial phyla including producers of both nitriles and isothiocyanates. Our findings support a model for bacterial isothiocyanate biosynthesis by sulfur transfer into isonitrile precursors.

Environmental Conditions and Agronomical Factors Influencing the Levels of Phytochemicals in Brassica Vegetables Responsible for Nutritional and Sensorial Properties

Recently, the consumption of healthy foods has been related to the prevention of cardiovascular, degenerative diseases and different forms of cancers, underlying the importance of the diet for the consumer’s health. Fruits and vegetables contain phytochemicals that act as protective factors for the human body, through different mechanisms of action. Among vegetables, Brassica received a lot of attention in the last years for the phytochemical compounds content and antioxidant capacity that confer nutraceutical value to the product. The amount of healthy bioactive compounds present in the Brassica defines the nutritional quality. These molecules could belong to the class of antioxidant compounds (e.g., phenols, vitamin C, etc.), or to non-antioxidant compounds (e.g., minerals, glucosinolates, etc.). The amount of these compounds in Brassica vegetables could be influenced by several factors, depending on the genotypes, the environmental conditions and the cultivation techniques adopted. The aim of this study is to highlight the main phytochemical compounds present in brassicas used as a food vegetable that confer nutritional and sensorial quality to the final product, and to investigate the main factors that affect the phytochemical concentration and the overall quality of Brassica vegetables.

Invited Review: Glucosinolates Might Result in Low Methane Emissions From Ruminants Fed Brassica Forages

Methane is formed from the microbial degradation of feeds in the digestive tract in ruminants. Methane emissions from ruminants not only result in a loss of feed energy but also contribute to global warming. Previous studies showed that brassica forages, such as forage rape, lead to less methane emitted per unit of dry matter intake than grass-based forages. Differences in rumen pH are proposed to partly explain these low emissions. Rumen microbial community differences are also observed, but the causes of these are unknown, although altered digesta flow has been proposed. This paper proposes a new mechanism underlying the lower methane emissions from sheep fed brassica forages. It is reported that feeding brassica forages to sheep can increase the concentration of free triiodothyronine (FT3) in serum, while the intramuscular injection of FT3 into sheep can reduce the mean retention time of digesta in the rumen. The short retention time of digesta is associated with low methane production. Glucosinolates (GSLs) are chemical components widely present in plants of the genus Brassica. After ruminants consume brassica forages, GSLs are broken down in the rumen. We hypothesize that GSLs or their breakdown products are absorbed into the blood and then may stimulate the secretion of thyroid hormone FT3 in ruminants, and the altered thyroid hormone concentration may change rumen physiology. As a consequence, the mean retention time of digesta in the rumen would be altered, resulting in a decrease in methane emissions. This hypothesis on mitigation mechanism is based on the manipulation of animal physiological parameters, which, if proven, will then support the expansion of this research area.

S-methyl Methanethiosulfonate: Promising Late Blight Inhibitor or Broad Range Toxin?

(1) Background: S-methyl methanethiosulfonate (MMTS), a sulfur containing volatile organic compound produced by plants and bacterial species, has recently been described to be an efficient anti-oomycete agent with promising perspectives for the control of the devastating potato late blight disease caused by Phytophthora infestans. However, earlier work raised questions regarding the putative toxicity of this compound. To assess the suitability of MMTS for late blight control in the field, the present study thus aimed at evaluating the effect of MMTS on a wide range of non-target organisms in comparison to P. infestans. (2) Methods: To this end, we exposed P. infestans, as well as different pathogenic and non-pathogenic fungi, bacteria, the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans as well as the plant Arabidopsis thaliana to MMTS treatment and evaluated their response by means of in vitro assays. (3) Results: Our results showed that fungi (both mycelium and spores) tolerated MMTS better than the oomycete P. infestans, but that the compound nevertheless exhibited non-negligible toxic effects on bacteria, nematodes and plants. (4) Conclusions: We discuss the mode of action of MMTS and conclude that even though this compound might be too toxic for chemical application in the field, its strong anti-oomycete activity could still be exploited when naturally released at the site of infection by plant-associated microbes inoculated as biocontrol agents.

Altering salivary protein profile can decrease aversive oromotor responding to quinine in rats

Bitter taste is often associated with toxins, but accepting some bitter foods, such as green vegetables, can be an important part of maintaining a healthy diet. It has previously been shown that animals exposed to quinine upregulate a set of salivary proteins (SPs), and those with upregulated SPs have increased rates of feeding on a quinine diet as well as increased brief-access licking to and higher detection thresholds for quinine. These studies suggest that SPs alter orosensory feedback; however, they rely on SPs upregulated by diet exposure and cannot control for the role of learning. Here, we use taste reactivity to determine if SPs can alter bitter taste in animals with no previous bitter diet experience. First, saliva with proteins stimulated by injections of isoproterenol and pilocarpine was collected from anesthetized rats; this "donor saliva" was analyzed for protein concentration and profile. Bitter-naïve rats were implanted with oral catheters and infused with taste stimuli dissolved in saliva that contained all of the SPs from the donors, saliva that was filtered of SPs, water, or artificial saliva. Their orofacial movements were recorded and quantified. We found that presence of quinine increased movements associated with aversive stimuli, but adding SPs to the infusion was sufficient to reduce aversive oromotor responding to quinine. The effect was dependent on the total protein concentration of the saliva, as protein concentration increased aversive responses decreased. Additionally, infusions of whole saliva altered aversive responding to quinine, but not other stimuli (citric acid, NaCl, sucrose). Our work suggests that effect of these SPs is specific and the presence of SPs is sufficient to decrease aversive orosensory feedback to bitter stimuli.

Accumulation of Dietary S-Methyl Cysteine Sulfoxide in Human Prostate Tissue

SCOPE

Observational studies have associated consumption of cruciferous vegetables with reduced risk of prostate cancer. This effect has been associated with the degradation products of glucosinolates-thioglycosides that accumulate within crucifers. The possible role of S-methyl cysteine sulfoxide, a metabolite that also accumulates in cruciferous vegetables, and its derivatives, in cancer prevention is relatively unexplored compared to glucosinolate derivatives. The hypothesis that consuming a broccoli soup results in the accumulation of sulfate (a SMCSO derivative) and other broccoli-derived metabolites in prostate tissue is tested.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Eighteen men scheduled for transperineal prostate biopsy were recruited into a 4-week parallel single blinded diet supplementation study (NCT02821728). Nine men supplemented their diet with three 300 mL portions of a broccoli soup each week for four weeks prior to surgery. Analyses of prostate biopsy tissues reveal no detectable levels of glucosinolates and derivatives. In contrast, SMCSO is detected in prostate tissues of the participants, with significantly higher levels in tissue of men in the supplementation arm. SMCSO was also found in blood and urine samples from a previous intervention study with the identical broccoli soup.

CONCLUSION

The consequences of SMCSO accumulation in prostate tissues and its potential role in prevention of prostate cancer remains to be investigated.

Transient methemoglobinemia suspected secondary to ingestion of Brassica species in a dog

This case report describes methemoglobinemia in a dog suspected to be the result of consumption of a large volume of fermented bok choy. The patient presented with clinical signs and co-oximetry consistent with methemoglobinemia without ingestion of a known toxin. A large volume of fermented bok choy had been ingested earlier that day and decontamination procedures were performed as a result. Supportive care led to resolution of clinical signs and appropriate clearance of methemoglobin. While erythrocyte oxidant damage is a consequence of ingestion of plants in the genus Brassica (such as bok choy) in ruminant species due to rumen microbiota producing sulfur-containing compounds, specifically dimethyl disulfide, there are potential pathways that can lead to similar effects in monogastric animals. The methemoglobin formation in this patient may have resulted from the large volume consumed with the natural fermentation releasing dimethyl disulfide and leading to oxidant damage analogous with that in ruminants. This case report provides additional mechanisms for methemoglobin formation in dogs and to direct the clinician toward methemoglobinemia in patients with compatible clinical signs with ingestion of specific plant species.

Histone Methyltransferase Setd7 Regulates Nrf2 Signaling Pathway by Phenethyl Isothiocyanate and Ursolic Acid in Human Prostate Cancer Cells

SCOPE

This study aims to investigate the role of the epigenetic regulator SET domain-containing lysine methyltransferase 7 (Setd7) in regulating the antioxidant Nrf2 pathway in prostate cancer (PCa) cells and examines the effects of two phytochemicals, phenethyl isothiocyanate (PEITC) and ursolic acid (UA).

METHODS AND RESULTS

Lentivirus-mediated shRNA knockdown of Setd7 in LNCaP and PC-3 cells decreases the expression of downstream Nrf2 targets, such as NAD(P)H: quinone oxidoreductase 1 (Nqo1) and glutathione S-transferase theta 2 (Gstt2). Downregulation of Setd7 decreases soft agar colony formation ability of PCa cells. Knockdown of Setd7 increases reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation. Furthermore, Setd7 knockdown attenuates Nqo1 and Gstt2 expression in response to H2 O2 challenge, whereas increased DNA damage is observed in Setd7 knockdown cells in comet assay. Interestingly, Setd7 expression could be induced by the dietary phytochemicals PEITC and UA. Chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) assays show that Setd7 knockdown decreased H3K4me1 enrichment in the Nrf2 and Gstt2 promoter regions, while PEITC and UA treatments elevated the enrichment.

CONCLUSION

Taken together, these results indicate that Setd7 knockdown decreases Nrf2 and Nrf2-target genes expression and that PEITC and UA induce Setd7 expression, which activates the Nrf2/antioxidant response element (ARE) signaling pathway and protects DNA from oxidative damage.

Statistical modeling for estimating glucosinolate content in Chinese cabbage by growth conditions

BACKGROUND

Glucosinolate in Chinese cabbage (Brassica campestris L. ssp. pekinensis (Lour.) Rupr) has potential benefits for human health, and its content is affected by growth conditions. In this study, we used a statistical model to identify the relationship between glucosinolate content and growth conditions, and to predict glucosinolate content in Chinese cabbage.

RESULT

Multiple regression analysis was employed to develop the model's growth condition parameters of growing period, temperature, humidity and glucosinolate content measured in Chinese cabbage grown in a plant factory. The developed model was represented by a second-order multi-polynomial equation with two independent parameters: growth duration and temperature (adjusted R²  = 0.81), and accurately predicted glucosinolate content after 14 days of seeding.

CONCLUSION

To our knowledge, this study presents the first statistical model for evaluating glucosinolate content, suggesting a useful methodology for designing glucosinolate-related experiments, and optimizing glucosinolate content in Chinese cabbage cultivation. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry.

Taste and Flavor Perceptions of Glucosinolates, Isothiocyanates, and Related Compounds

Brassicaceae plants are renowned for their taste, aroma and trigeminal characteristics; predominantly bitter taste, sulfurous aroma, and pungency. Compounds responsible for these sensations include the glucosinolates (GSLs) and their hydrolysis products, particularly isothiocyanates (ITCs), but also sulfur-containing volatile compounds. This article reviews the relative importance of taste and flavor perceptions resulting from such compounds; collating evidence from papers where findings are based on sensory analytical correlations, and those that have extracted specific compounds prior to sensory evaluation. Where specific GSLs impart bitterness and many ITCs impart pungency, this is clearly not true for all GSLs and ITCs. Designing crop improvement strategies for sensory traits based on total GSL content would be flawed, as it does not consider the relative differences in sensory characteristics of different GSLs and ITCs, nor the contribution from other GSL hydrolysis products. In addition, some Brassicaceae plants are consumed raw, whilst others are cooked; this affects not only the hydrolysis of GSLs, but also the generation and release of sulfides. Therefore, in breeding new plant varieties, it is prudent to consider the individual GSLs, the typical cooking conditions the plant is subjected to, enzyme stability, and resultant composition of both GSL hydrolysis products (including ITCs) and sulfides.

Evaluation of antioxidant and hepatoprotective effects of white cabbage essential oil

CONTEXT

There have been no reports of the extraction of essential oil (EO) from white cabbage [Brassica oleracea L. var. capitata (L.) Alef. f. alba DC. (Brassicaceae)] (Bocfal) or its chemical composition, antioxidant activity, or hepatoprotective effects.

OBJECTIVE

To extract Bocfal EO, to identify and quantify its chemical components, to assess their antioxidant capacity, and to evaluate the hepatoprotective properties of Bocfal EO.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Bocfal EO was obtained using hydrodistillation (200 mm Hg/58 °C). The chemical composition was analyzed using GC-MS and was quantified using GC-FID. The antioxidant activity of Bocfal EO and its main constituents was evaluated using TBARS in rat brain homogenates. A Bocfal EO hepatoprotective effect (192 mg/kg) on acute carbon tetrachloride (CT)-induced liver damage was determined in rats using biochemical markers and histological analysis. Diallyl disulphide (DADS) (1 mmol/kg) was used as a control for comparison.

RESULTS

Bocfal EO contained organic polysulphides (OPSs), such as dimethyl trisulphide (DMTS) 65.43 ± 4.92% and dimethyl disulphide (DMDS) 19.29 ± 2.16% as major constituents. Bocfal EO and DMTS were found to be potent TBARS inhibitors with IC₅₀ values of 0.51 and 3 mg/L, respectively. Bocfal EO demonstrated better hepatoprotective properties than did DADS (p < 0.05), although both slightly affected the hepatic parenchyma per se, as observed using histopathology.

DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION

The antioxidant properties of Bocfal EO and DMTS may be the mechanism of hepatoprotective action; the parenchymal disturbances by Bocfal EO or DADS alone may be related to the high doses used.

Dietary Broccoli Impacts Microbial Community Structure and Attenuates Chemically Induced Colitis in Mice in an Ah receptor dependent manner

Consumption of broccoli mediates numerous chemo-protective benefits through the intake of phytochemicals, some of which modulate aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR) activity. Whether AHR activation is a critical aspect of the therapeutic potential of dietary broccoli is not known. Here we administered isocaloric diets, with or without supplementation of whole broccoli (15% w/w), to congenic mice expressing the high-affinity Ahrb/b or low-affinity Ahrd/d alleles, for 24 days and examined the effects on AHR activity, intestinal microbial community structure, inflammatory status, and response to chemically induced colitis. Cecal microbial community structure and metabolic potential were segregated according to host dietary and AHR status. Dietary broccoli associated with heightened intestinal AHR activity, decreased microbial abundance of the family Erysipelotrichaceae, and attenuation of colitis. In summary, broccoli consumption elicited an enhanced response in ligand-sensitive Ahrb/b mice, demonstrating that in part the beneficial aspects of dietary broccoli upon intestinal health are associated with heightened AHR activity.

Two likely targets for the anti-cancer effect of indole derivatives from cruciferous vegetables: PI3K/Akt/mTOR signalling pathway and the aryl hydrocarbon receptor

Diets containing high quantities of plant foods are linked with a decreased likelihood of incidence of cancer. Several common plant-based dietary components exert effects on DNA methylation levels, and can positively influence genome stability and the transcription of tumor suppressors and oncogenes. Indole-3-carbinol (I3C) is a substance present in vegetables of the Brassicaeae family, especially broccoli, white cabbage, Brussels sprouts and cauliflower. The in vivo biological effects of I3C are ascribed to a series of oligomeric products (including 3,3'-diindolylmethane), developed under acidic conditions. I3C is one of the many natural products and bioactive compounds found in foods which have recently received much attention for its potential effects in cancer prevention and treatment. In vitro studies report that I3C suppresses the proliferation of different tumor cells, including those isolated from breast, prostate, endometrium, and colon cancers. I3C resulted to be a potent in vivo chemopreventive agent for certain hormone-dependent cancers, including breast and cervical cancer. However, the mechanisms underlying these effects are not well defined. In this review, we have analysed recent literature on the use of indole derivatives against various forms of cancer, and have identified the main signalling pathways involved in their anti-cancer effect as PI3K/Akt/mTOR and the aryl hydrocarbon receptor.

Invited review: impact of specific nutrient interventions during mid-to-late gestation on physiological traits important for survival of multiple-born lambs

To improve production efficiency, the sheep meat industry has increased flock prolificacy. However, multiple-born lambs have lower birth weights, increased mortality and reduced growth rate compared with single-born lambs. Lamb mortality is a major issue for livestock farming globally and solutions are required to increase survival to realise the value of increased flock fecundity. Nutrition during gestation can influence maternal-foetal placental nutrient transfer and thus foetal growth and organ/tissue development, as well as improve postnatal productivity. This review covers the challenges and opportunities associated with increased prolificacy, highlights gaps in our knowledge and identifies some opportunities for how targeted intervention with specific nutrients during mid-to-late pregnancy may influence lamb survival and productivity with a specific focus on pasture-based systems. This time frame was selected as intervention strategies in short-time windows post-pregnancy scanning and before lambing to improve lamb survival in high-risk groups (e.g. triplets) are likely to be the most practical and economically feasible options for pasture-based extensive farming systems.

Biomarkers in patients admitted to the emergency department after exposure to acrylonitrile in a major railway incident involving bulk chemical material

BACKGROUND

A railway incident with victims of exposure to the cyanogenic substance acrylonitrile (ACN).

AIMS

We retrospectively (i)built an inventory of the clinical characteristics of individuals admitted to surrounding emergency departments (ED's) and (ii)studied the correlation between N-2-cyanoethylvaline (CEV), a biomarker used in a population study for evaluating exposure to ACN, with lactate and thiocyanate (SCN), biomarkers determined during emergency care.

RESULTS

438 patients from 11 ED's were included and presented with known symptoms of ACN poisoning but also with concern about the risks. A comparison of CEV with lactate or SCN was possible in 108 and 73 patients respectively. CEV was very high in a critically ill patient with a high lactate. There was no correlation with CEV in the patients with normal or slightly elevated lactate concentrations. A correlation of CEV with SCN was only observed in smokers.

LIMITATIONS

First there is a lack of data in some clinical files concerning the time and duration of exposure and the smoking-status. A second limitation is that blood samples for biomarkers were not taken systematically in all patients, which may have induced bias. A third limitation is that blood sampling was possibly done outside the correct time window related to the delayed toxicity of ACN. Finally the number of severely-intoxicated patients was low and ACN exposure may not have taken place e.g. in individuals consulting with psychological symptoms. These aspects may have contributed to the below detection limits' analyses of biomarkers.

CONCLUSIONS

CEV was markedly elevated in a severely-intoxicated patient with high lactate, a sensitive marker for CN intoxication. We found no correlation of CEV with normal or slightly elevated lactate concentrations but clinicians should consider the possibility of subsequent rises due to the delay in ACN toxicity. CEV correlated with SCN in smokers, which may be explained by ACN in tobacco smoke and deserves further exploration. Further studies are necessary to evaluate the correlation between biomarkers in acute chemical exposures to ACN and these should be carried out prospectively using a preplanned template.

Development and Validation of a SPME-GC-MS Method for In situ Passive Sampling of Root Volatiles from Glasshouse-Grown Broccoli Plants Undergoing Below-Ground Herbivory by Larvae of Cabbage Root Fly, Delia radicum L

INTRODUCTION

Research on plant root chemical ecology has benefited greatly from recent developments in analytical chemistry. Numerous reports document techniques for sampling root volatiles, although only a limited number describe in situ collection.

OBJECTIVES

To demonstrate a new method for non-invasive in situ passive sampling using solid phase micro extraction (SPME), from the immediate vicinity of growing roots.

METHODS

SPME fibres inserted into polyfluorotetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) sampling tubes located in situ which were either perforated, covered with stainless steel mesh or with microporous PTFE tubing, were used for non-invasive sub-surface sampling of root volatiles from glasshouse-grown broccoli. Sampling methods were compared with above surface headspace collection using Tenax TA. The roots were either mechanically damaged or infested with Delia radicum larvae. Principal component analysis (PCA) was used to investigate the effect of damage on the composition of volatiles released by broccoli roots.

RESULTS

Analyses by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) with SPME and automated thermal desorption (ATD) confirmed that sulphur compounds, showing characteristic temporal emission patterns, were the principal volatiles released by roots following insect larval damage. Use of SPME with in situ perforated PTFE sampling tubes was the most robust method for out-of-lab sampling.

CONCLUSION

This study describes a new method for non-invasive passive sampling of volatiles in situ from intact and insect damaged roots using SPME. The method is highly suitable for remote sampling and has potential for wide application in chemical ecology/root/soil research. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

The Role of Avocados in Maternal Diets during the Periconceptional Period, Pregnancy, and Lactation

Maternal nutrition plays a crucial role in influencing fertility, fetal development, birth outcomes, and breast milk composition. During the critical window of time from conception through the initiation of complementary feeding, the nutrition of the mother is the nutrition of the offspring—and a mother’s dietary choices can affect both the early health status and lifelong disease risk of the offspring. Most health expert recommendations and government-sponsored dietary guidelines agree that a healthy diet for children and adults (including those who are pregnant and/or lactating) should include an abundance of nutrient-rich foods such as fruits and vegetables. These foods should contain a variety of essential nutrients as well as other compounds that are associated with lower disease risk such as fiber and bioactives. However, the number and amounts of nutrients varies considerably among fruits and vegetables, and not all fruit and vegetable options are considered “nutrient-rich”. Avocados are unique among fruits and vegetables in that, by weight, they contain much higher amounts of the key nutrients folate and potassium, which are normally under-consumed in maternal diets. Avocados also contain higher amounts of several non-essential compounds, such as fiber, monounsaturated fats, and lipid-soluble antioxidants, which have all been linked to improvements in maternal health, birth outcomes and/or breast milk quality. The objective of this report is to review the evidence that avocados may be a unique nutrition source for pregnant and lactating women and, thus, should be considered for inclusion in future dietary recommendations for expecting and new mothers.

Phenethyl isothiocyanate (PEITC) suppresses prostate cancer cell invasion epigenetically through regulating microRNA-194

SCOPE

Tumor metastasis greatly contributes to the mortality of prostate cancer. The glucosinolate-derived phenethyl isothiocyanate (PEITC) has been widely documented to reduce the risk of prostate cancer by modulating multiple biologically relevant processes. Emerging evidence suggests that PEITC may exert its anti-cancer effects through epigenetic mechanisms including microRNAs. Altered levels of miRNA have been linked to tumor malignancy due to their capacity to regulate functional gene expression in carcinogenesis. Here, we assessed the effects of PEITC on miRNA expression which is related to PCa cell invasiveness.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Utilizing oligonucleotide microarray first identified the most affected miRNAs in LNCaP cells after PEITC treatment. Several top altered miRNAs were further validated using quantitative PCR. Interestingly, overexpression of miR-194 suppressed PC3 cell invasion in matrigel-coated Transwell chambers. Bone morphogenetic protein 1 (BMP1) was shown to be a direct target of miR-194. Downregulation of BMP1 by miR-194 or PEITC led to decreased expression of key oncogenic matrix metalloproteinases, MMP2 and MMP9. This in turn resulted in the suppression of tumor invasion.

CONCLUSION

Our results indicate that miR-194 downregulates the expression of oncogenic MMP2 and MMP9 by targeting BMP1, which suggests a potential new mechanistic target by which PEITC suppresses prostate cancer cell invasiveness.

Oxidation of cefazolin by potassium permanganate: Transformation products and plausible pathways

Cefazolin was demonstrated to exert high reactivity toward permanganate (Mn(VII)), a common oxidant in water pre-oxidation treatment. In this study, five transformation products were found to be classified into three categories according to the contained characteristic functional groups: three (di-)sulfoxide products, one sulfone product and one di-ketone product. Products analyses showed that two kinds of reactions including oxidation of thioether and the cleavage of unsaturated CC double bond occurred during transformation of cefazolin by Mn(VII). Subsequently, the plausible transformation pathways under different pH conditions were proposed based on the identified products and chemical reaction principles. More importantly, the simulation with real surface water matrix indicated that the proposed transformation pathways of cefazolin could be replayed in real water treatment practices.

In vitro fermentability and methane production of some alternative forages in Australia

A study was conducted to examine in vitro ruminal fermentation profiles and methane production of some alternative forage species (n = 10) in Australia. Extent of fermentation was assessed using an in vitro batch fermentation system, where total gas production, methane production, and concentrations in ruminal fluid of volatile fatty acids (VFA) and ammonia were measured. Forages varied in their fermentability, with highest total gas, methane, VFA and ammonia production recorded from selected samples of Brassica napus L. cv. Winfred. Lowest methane production (i.e. 30% less than that formed by the highest-producing one) was observed in Plantago lanceolata L. cv. Tonic and Cichorium intybus L. cv. Choice. Selected plants, including P. lanceolata L. cv. Tonic, Brassica rapa L. cv. Marco, Brassica napus L. cv. Hunter had reduced acetate : propionate ratio and/or ammonia concentration, along with relatively low methane production compared with other species tested, while overall fermentation was not affected. It was concluded that selected novel forages have some advantageous fermentability profiles in the rumen and, in particular, inhibit methane production. However, before these can be recommended as valuable supplementary feedstuffs for ruminants in Australia, further studies are needed to confirm these effects over a range of samples, conditions and in vivo.

The Effect of pH and Temperature on Cabbage Volatiles During Storage

During storage of shredded cabbage, characteristic sulfurous volatile compounds are formed affecting cabbage aroma both negatively and positively. Selected ion flow tube-mass spectrometry (SIFT-MS) was used to measure the concentration of cabbage volatiles during storage. The volatile levels of cabbage samples were measured at pH 3.3 to 7.4 at 4 °C for 14 d, and pH 3.3 at 25 °C for 5 d in order to determine the effect of pH and temperature. Aroma intensity, best aroma, freshness, and off odor were evaluated in a sensory test of the samples at 4 °C. The desirable volatile allyl isothiocyanate was lower in high pH samples (pH 7.4 and 6.4), whereas higher concentrations were detected in low pH samples (pH 3.3 and 4.6). Lipoxygenase volatiles, which produce a fresh green and leafy aroma in cabbage, were generated in very low amounts at any pH value. High pH samples generated significantly higher concentrations of off odors such as dimethyl sulfide, dimethyl disulfide, dimethyl trisulfide, and methanethiol. Sensory tests showed that higher pH samples had significantly stronger off odor and lower desirable cabbage aroma than lower pH samples. Thus, sensory results matched the volatile results in that samples at higher pH levels formed the highest amount of undesirable volatiles and the least amount of desirable volatiles. Storage at 25 °C produced similar concentrations of allyl isothiocyanate, but significantly higher levels of off odors, than at 4 °C. Shredded cabbage products should be stored in low pH dressings to minimize formation of off odors and maximize formation of characteristic, desirable cabbage odor.

Diet rich in high glucoraphanin broccoli reduces plasma LDL cholesterol: Evidence from randomised controlled trials

SCOPE

Cruciferous-rich diets have been associated with reduction in plasma LDL-cholesterol (LDL-C), which may be due to the action of isothiocyanates derived from glucosinolates that accumulate in these vegetables. This study tests the hypothesis that a diet rich in high glucoraphanin (HG) broccoli will reduce plasma LDL-C.

METHODS AND RESULTS

One hundred and thirty volunteers were recruited to two independent double-blind, randomly allocated parallel dietary intervention studies, and were assigned to consume either 400 g standard broccoli or 400 g HG broccoli per week for 12 weeks. Plasma lipids were quantified before and after the intervention. In study 1 (37 volunteers), the HG broccoli diet reduced plasma LDL-C by 7.1% (95% CI: -1.8%, -12.3%, p = 0.011), whereas standard broccoli reduced LDL-C by 1.8% (95% CI +3.9%, -7.5%, ns). In study 2 (93 volunteers), the HG broccoli diet resulted in a reduction of 5.1% (95% CI: -2.1%, -8.1%, p = 0.001), whereas standard broccoli reduced LDL-C by 2.5% (95% CI: +0.8%, -5.7%, ns). When data from the two studies were combined the reduction in LDL-C by the HG broccoli was significantly greater than standard broccoli (p = 0.031).

CONCLUSION

Evidence from two independent human studies indicates that consumption of high glucoraphanin broccoli significantly reduces plasma LDL-C.

Broccoli glucosinolate degradation is reduced performing thermal treatment in binary systems with other food ingredients

Glucosinolate (GL) stability has been widely studied in differentBrassicaspecies.

Toll-like receptors as a target of food-derived anti-inflammatory compounds

Toll-like receptors (TLRs) play a key role in linking pathogen recognition with the induction of innate immunity. They have been implicated in the pathogenesis of chronic inflammatory diseases, representing potential targets for prevention/treatment. Vegetable-rich diets are associated with the reduced risk of several inflammatory disorders. In the present study, based on an extensive screening of vegetable extracts for TLR-inhibiting activity in HEK293 cells co-expressing TLR with the NF-κB reporter gene, we found cabbage and onion extracts to be the richest sources of a TLR signaling inhibitor. To identify the active substances, we performed activity-guiding separation of the principal inhibitors and identified 3-methylsulfinylpropyl isothiocyanate (iberin) from the cabbage and quercetin and quercetin 4'-O-β-glucoside from the onion, among which iberin showed the most potent inhibitory effect. It was revealed that iberin specifically acted on the dimerization step of TLRs in the TLR signaling pathway. To gain insight into the inhibitory mechanism of TLR dimerization, we developed a novel probe combining an isothiocyanate-reactive group and an alkyne functionality for click chemistry and detected the probe bound to the TLRs in living cells, suggesting that iberin disrupts dimerization of the TLRs via covalent binding. Furthermore, we designed a variety of iberin analogues and found that the inhibition potency was influenced by the oxidation state of the sulfur. Modeling studies of the iberin analogues showed that the oxidation state of sulfur might influence the global shape of the isothiocyanates. These findings establish the TLR dimerization step as a target of food-derived anti-inflammatory compounds.

Antioxidant and Anti-inflammatory Activities of Broccoli Florets in LPS-stimulated RAW 264.7 Cells

Broccoli (Brassica oleracea var. italia) florets were extracted with 80% methanol and the extract was sequentially fractionated with n-hexane, ethyl acetate, n-butanol, and distilled water. The extract and the fractions were evaluated for total phenolic content, sulforaphane content, antioxidant activity, and anti-inflammatory activity in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated RAW 264.7 cells. The total phenolic content and sulforaphane content of the ethyl acetate fraction (EF) were 35.5 mg gallic acid equivalents/g and 620.2 μg/g, respectively. These values were higher than those of the 80% methanol extract and organic solvent fractions. The oxygen radical absorbance capacity of the EF [1,588.7 μM Trolox equivalents (TE)/mg] was 11-fold higher than that of the distilled water fraction (143.7 μM TE/mg). The EF inhibited nitric oxide release from LPS-stimulated RAW 264.7 cells in a dose-dependent manner and inhibited IκB-α degradation and nuclear factor-κB activation in LPS-stimulated RAW 264.7 cells. In conclusion, the EF of broccoli florets exerted potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.

Glucosinolates, myrosinase hydrolysis products, and flavonols found in rocket (Eruca sativa and Diplotaxis tenuifolia)

Rocket species have been shown to have very high concentrations of glucosinolates and flavonols, which have numerous positive health benefits with regular consumption. This review highlights how breeders and processors of rocket species can utilize genomic and phytochemical research to improve varieties and enhance the nutritive benefits to consumers. Plant breeders are increasingly looking to new technologies such as HPLC, UPLC, LC-MS, and GC-MS to screen populations for their phytochemical content to inform plant selections. This paper collates the research that has been conducted to date in rocket and summarizes all glucosinolate and flavonol compounds identified in the species. The paper emphasizes the importance of the broad screening of populations for phytochemicals and myrosinase degradation products, as well as unique traits that may be found in underutilized gene bank resources. This review also stresses that collaboration with industrial partners is becoming essential for long-term plant breeding goals through research.

Glucosinolate metabolism, functionality and breeding for the improvement of Brassicaceae vegetables

Unique secondary metabolites, glucosinolates (S-glucopyranosyl thiohydroximates), are naturally occurring S-linked glucosides found mainly in Brassicaceae plants. They are enzymatically hydrolyzed to produce sulfate ions, D-glucose, and characteristic degradation products such as isothiocyanates. The functions of glucosinolates in the plants remain unclear, but isothiocyanates possessing a pungent or irritating taste and odor might be associated with plant defense from microbes. Isothiocyanates have been studied extensively in experimental in vitro and in vivo carcinogenesis models for their cancer chemopreventive properties. The beneficial isothiocyanates, glucosinolates that are functional for supporting human health, have received attention from many scientists studying plant breeding, plant physiology, plant genetics, and food functionality. This review presents a summary of recent topics related with glucosinolates in the Brassica family, along with a summary of the chemicals, metabolism, and genes of glucosinolates in Brassicaceae. The bioavailabilities of isothiocyanates from certain functional glucosinolates and the importance of breeding will be described with emphasis on glucosinolates.

Characteristics and biotechnology applications of aliphatic amino acid hydroxylases belonging to the Fe(II)/α-ketoglutarate-dependent dioxygenase superfamily

The asymmetric hydroxylation of inactive carbon atoms is still an important reaction in the industrial synthesis of valuable chiral compounds such as pharmaceuticals and fine chemicals. Applications of monooxygenation enzymes, like cytochrome P450 monooxygenases, flavin-containing monooxygenases, and Fe(II)/α-ketoglutarate-dependent dioxygenases (Fe/αKG-DOs), are strongly desired as hydroxylation biocatalysts because they have great advantages in regio- and stereoselectivity of the reactions. Recently, several novel Fe/αKG-DOs have been found to catalyze the asymmetric hydroxylation of aliphatic amino acids. Depending on their amino acid sequences, these Fe/αKG-DOs catalyze different types of regioselective hydroxylations, or C3-, C4-, and C5-hydroxylation. Additionally, most also have stereoselective sulfoxidation activities. Here, we have reviewed the characterization and process development of this novel functioning group of Fe/αKG-DOs.

Diet and toenail arsenic concentrations in a New Hampshire population with arsenic-containing water

BACKGROUND

Limited data exist on the contribution of dietary sources of arsenic to an individual's total exposure, particularly in populations with exposure via drinking water. Here, the association between diet and toenail arsenic concentrations (a long-term biomarker of exposure) was evaluated for individuals with measured household tap water arsenic. Foods known to be high in arsenic, including rice and seafood, were of particular interest.

METHODS

Associations between toenail arsenic and consumption of 120 individual diet items were quantified using general linear models that also accounted for household tap water arsenic and potentially confounding factors (e.g., age, caloric intake, sex, smoking) (n = 852). As part of the analysis, we assessed whether associations between log-transformed toenail arsenic and each diet item differed between subjects with household drinking water arsenic concentrations <1 μg/L versus ≥1 μg/L.

RESULTS

As expected, toenail arsenic concentrations increased with household water arsenic concentrations. Among the foods known to be high in arsenic, no clear relationship between toenail arsenic and rice consumption was detected, but there was a positive association with consumption of dark meat fish, a category that includes tuna steaks, mackerel, salmon, sardines, bluefish, and swordfish. Positive associations between toenail arsenic and consumption of white wine, beer, and Brussels sprouts were also observed; these and most other associations were not modified by exposure via water. However, consumption of two foods cooked in water, beans/lentils and cooked oatmeal, was more strongly related to toenail arsenic among those with arsenic-containing drinking water (≥1 μg/L).

CONCLUSIONS

This study suggests that diet can be an important contributor to total arsenic exposure in U.S. populations regardless of arsenic concentrations in drinking water. Thus, dietary exposure to arsenic in the US warrants consideration as a potential health risk.

Transformation of cefazolin during chlorination process: products, mechanism and genotoxicity assessment

Large quantities of cephalosporins have entered into aquatic environment in recent years, posing potential adverse effect to human health and ecological safety. In this study, cefazolin, one of widely used cephalosporins, was targeted to explore its transformation behaviors in chlorination disinfection process. With the help of ultra high performance liquid chromatography and high resolution mass spectroscopy, one chlorinated product and four oxidation products were detected in cefazolin chlorination system. The corresponding transformation pathways of cefazolin were proposed. Two kinds of reactions occurred in chlorination system, one was oxidation of thioether-sulfur to sulfoxide and di-sulfoxide, and the other was base-catalyzed electrophilic substitution of alpha-H of amide by chlorine atom. The pH value determined the occurrence of reaction types, and increasing chlorine dose promoted transformation of cefazolin. More importantly, genotoxicity in SOS/umu assay had an elevation after chlorination, which might be attributed to the formation of chlorinated product and sulfoxide during chlorination process.

Role of bamboo-shoot in the pathogenesis of endemic goiter in manipur, north East India

OBJECTIVE

Endemic goiter is prevalent in the iodine-sufficient region of Manipur, India. Bamboo shoot (BS), a goitrogenic plant food, are consumed regularly in the area. The objective of this study was to examine the role of BS in the pathogenesis of endemic goiter.

METHODS

Goiter prevalence, urinary iodine, and thiocyanate (SCN) excretion in school children, iodine content in drinking water, and the household consumption of salt fortified with iodine were measured. To confirm the goitrogenic potential of BS, its progoitrogenic constituents were fed to rats as part of an iodine-sufficient diet, after which the animals' thyroid gland morphology and functional status were assessed.

RESULTS

Goiter prevalence was 31% in 4852 children, and the median urinary I and SCN levels were 176.3 μg/L and 0.962 ± 0.190 mg/dL, respectively. Of the households assessed, 90% consumed salt fortified with adequate iodine. Progoitrogenic constituents were high in BS from Manipur. Increased thyroid weight, hypertrophy and hyperplasia of follicular cells, decreased thyroid peroxidase activity, and low serum thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3) levels were observed in BS-fed rats.

CONCLUSION

Nearly one third of the studied participants had palpable goiter, despite a successful salt iodine fortification program. SCN from BS causes goiter in iodine-sufficient experimental animals. Similar ingestion in study participants was confirmed and is the likely cause for the persistence of endemic goiter in the Manipur region.